Enjoy the football without violence

As football fever kicks in, Lancashire Constabulary and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, are urging football fans across the county to enjoy Euro 2016 responsibly.

This summer’s campaign focuses on three key areas where the police often see ‘The Ugly Consequences of the Beautiful Game’ with incidents of domestic abuse, alcohol fuelled violence and drink or drug driving.

In each case, the message to offenders will be clear – there are no excuses. Don’t pay the penalty.

Nationally the reporting of domestic abuse goes up around 25 - 30% during major sporting tournaments, particularly football, and we are urging victims to seek help by ‘blowing the whistle’ and reporting what is happening them. Help and support is available through Lancashire Victim Services.

Chief Inspector Gary Crowe, from Lancashire Constabulary, said: “Here in Lancashire we want people to enjoy the competition and for those who want to have a drink as well, we would ask that they drink responsibly and not spoil the event for others.

“The potential ‘Ugly Consequences of the Beautiful Game’ are simply not worth it.”

Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw, who has funded the campaign, said: “Hopefully the Euros will be a time for celebration and I know the vast majority of fans will enjoy it responsibly. But unfortunately, events like this typically see an increase in alcohol-related crime, which is unacceptable.”

“Emotions can often run high during major football tournaments but there is no excuse for the drunken violence, domestic abuse and drink or drug driving that is sadly still too common during these events. I would urge anyone who plans on having a drink while watching the match to know their limits.

“Victims of crime can report it to police on 999, 101 or online and free independent support and advice is available from Lancashire Victim Services by calling 0300 323 0085 or visiting www.lancashirevictimservices.org.”

Neighbourhood Police and Licensing Officers will be out and about sharing the messages of the campaign and we’ll also share the messages across Facebook, Twitter and Instagram throughout the tournament.

Banners will be displayed on prominent roads and buildings across the county highlighting all elements of the campaign, and posters will be appearing in pubs, clubs, workplaces and community buildings.

The campaign will run until Sunday July 10.

Anyone with concerns relating to any aspect of the campaign can contact police on 101 or report it online https://doitonline.lancashire.police.uk/ .

If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

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